Rabbitohs co-captain Roy Asotasi will play for North Sydney in the NSW Cup tonight. Manly centre Steve Matai completed the Sea Eagles' final training run yesterday and is likely to play. Dean Whare and Tim Robinson will travel to Gosford as cover.

Greg Bird is certain to play and likely to move into the starting 13 at the expense of Mark Minichiello. Nate Myles will play with an ongoing sternum injury. Justin O'Neill (groin) is in slight doubt, with Dane Nielsen waiting in the wings.

James Maloney travelled to Townsville yesterday in a strong sign he will play. Warriors officials maintain he is only an outside chance. His likely return could push Carlos Tuimavave to the bench or reserve grade.

Josh Miller (concussion) trained yesterday and is expected to play. Matt Cooper has completed light duties in training this week, but will not return until round 24. The Tigers will have a final session today.

Joe Picker (concussion) has been cleared to play. The Raiders will travel with a full 19-man squad, including Jarrad Kennedy and Bronson Harrison. Dane Tilse is driving to Sydney separately because his wife is due to give birth in Canberra on Tuesday. The Panthers are expected to be 1-17.

Brisbane lock Corey Parker may be an outside chance to play after completing the Broncos' final two training sessions. Josh Hoffman (club suspension) has been replaced at fullback by Corey Norman and Luke Capewell moves on to the bench. Josh Reynolds (forearm) and David Stagg (ankle) will play.